A book set in Florence – now and then (21st and 16th century)

• Book: Urban Venus
• Location: Florence
• Author: Sara Downing

Review Author: Isabella Orff

I was really pleased to come across this book. It skilfully weaves a modern storyline – that of Lydia Irvine who comes from Newcastle Uni to Florence for her year abroad – with the creation of the painting, Venus of Urbino by Titian in the 16th century. It is a mix of fiction and fact, tightly written and quite delightful in the way it evokes Florence both now and then. You can walk the streets with Lydia and Maria and visit the Uffizi and set the novel in context – it would be a great addition to any trip to Florence.

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